Europe Must Stay Calm and Strong Despite Trump

Recent statements and actions by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Ukraine and Russia have shocked Europe. Many are still processing what happened. However, instead of panicking, we should see this as a wake-up call and a tough lesson that pushes us to act.

The message from the U.S. is clear: Europe can no longer rely on American support. This comes at the worst possible time, as Europe's security is at its most fragile since World War II.

Wise Words from Another Donald

Three years ago, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine shattered many old assumptions. Some people hoped things could go back to the way they were but, today, it should be obvious to everyone that the post-1989 order is over. Both politicians and the public must accept this reality.

Europe is in trouble. Our defence against the Russian threat is weak. For too long, European leaders have irresponsibly relied on the U.S. to handle security and defence spending. That era is over.

Time to Act

Instead of complaining about Trump, we must focus on solutions. This means stopping endless debates about minor issues and unrealistic green policies that harm our industries. If we fail, democratic Europe could soon disappear. Time is running out.

Donald Tusk, Poland’s Prime Minister, put it simply: Europe must act now. He outlined three key steps:

1. Use frozen Russian assets to finance aid for Ukraine.

2. Strengthen air defence and secure the EU’s borders with Russia.

3. Update financial rules to ensure proper funding for European defence.

Each of these steps is crucial. Let’s look at them one by one.

Helping Ukraine is our top priority. If we let Ukraine fall, Europe will face even bigger problems with Russia.

Europe Contributes the Most

Trump was wrong when he claimed that the U.S. gave more aid than Europe. The numbers tell the truth: by the end of last year, European countries had provided $132.3 billion, while the U.S. contributed $114.2 billion.

Now, with uncertainty in U.S. politics, Europe must not only continue supporting Ukraine but increase its efforts.

Using Frozen Russian Assets

One way to help is by using Russia’s frozen financial reserves. Out of the $300 billion frozen by sanctioning countries, over $200 billion is held in the EU.

Last year, EU countries decided that profits from these frozen assets should be used for Ukraine’s military support. 90% of these funds will go toward weapons, while 10% will help rebuild the country.

In October, the EU approved a loan of up to €35 billion for Ukraine, backed by these assets. This loan is part of a larger $50 billion aid package agreed upon by the G7 countries.

Expanding Military Support

Europe has also increased military aid. Initially, a €6 billion package was planned, but now there are talks of raising it to at least €20 billion. This includes weapons, artillery shells, and financial aid.

However, resistance from France and Italy—both struggling with debt—could slow down further support.

Strengthening Europe’s Defence

Europe must stop being defenceless. Our airspace, the Baltic region, and the EU’s border with Russia need stronger protection. Some NATO countries still fail to meet their 2% GDP defence spending commitments. Even those who do, like Slovakia, only meet the minimum.

Poland is a role model, spending over 4% of its GDP on defence to build one of Europe’s strongest armies.

Air Defence and Missile Protection

Europe urgently needs better missile defence. The war in Ukraine proves how crucial this is. At first, Russian missile attacks killed dozens in Kyiv. Now, with strong air defences, the city is much safer.

Europe, however, has no such protection. We are completely exposed to missile attacks.

This is not a new issue. Years ago, the U.S. proposed a missile defence system in the Czech Republic, but political opposition blocked it. Today, we see how shortsighted that decision was.

Funding Our Defence

For Europe to be secure, we must invest more in our defence industry. The EU estimates that over the next decade, €500 billion will be needed to strengthen security and continue supporting Ukraine.

To fund this, EU countries may need to increase their financial contributions. Additionally, we must boost European arms production. Depending on outside suppliers is no longer an option.

Increasing Arms Production

The EU has already allocated €500 million to increase ammunition production. Czech companies like Explosia and STV GROUP have benefited from this initiative.

However, obstacles remain. Many banks hesitate to fund defence companies due to ESG restrictions. This must change.

In January, 18 EU countries, including the Czech Republic, proposed using the European Investment Bank to finance the defence industry. They suggested increasing loan availability and issuing special bonds for security investments.

What’s Next? The European Defence White Paper

On March 19, the EU will present a White Paper on European Defence, outlining how to strengthen security, increase investment, and improve coordination across the continent.

For years, European lawmakers have demanded such a plan. Now, with war at our doorstep, the EU is finally taking action.

Security Must Be the Top Priority

Europe must be ready to protect its people. We need massive rearmament and industrial investment, not only to help Ukraine but also to restore Europe’s defence capabilities.

A well-armed Europe is the only way to stop Russian aggression. Russia only respects strength.

Tomáš Zdechovský

Czech Politician | Member of European Parliament (MEP)